Silicon Valley Tech Tour from San Francisco
Departure City End City
Duration
Language
Guide Type
Group Size
Activity LevelHighlights
• Computer History Museum
• Visit the Apple Park Visitors Center
• Hear tales of the tech industry of Palo Alto
Itinerary
This tour will take you through the origin stories of Apple, Google, IBM, and many previously unrecognized technologists who paved the way for the advent of the hardware we carry with us and use every day.
We'll make extended stops at the Googleplex and Google Android Lawn Statues and a visit at the one-of-a-kind Computer History Museum. Taking you through the evolution of computing, from the abacus to the complexities of artificial intelligence and self-driving vehicles, you'll feel like a tech history pro after your visit. We'll also explore the multi-tiered, newly constructed Apple Visitor's Center which is also a fully-stocked Apple Store before returning to San Francisco.
【Itinerary】
Morning – Googleplex and the Computer History Museum
7:30 - 7:50am: Make your way to the pre-arranged pick-up spots. We recommend you arrive at least 10 minutes early.
8:45 - 9:45am: Our tour kicks off with a visit to the Googleplex, Google's headquarters in Mountain View. Experience the unique campus culture that defines one of the world's most influential tech giants. Wander through the open spaces and see the quirky sculptures, bike lanes, and themed offices that foster creativity and innovation. Snap photos with the iconic Android statues and explore the visitor center, where you can learn about Google's groundbreaking projects and products. Witness firsthand the environment where cutting-edge ideas come to life.
10:00am - 12:00pm: Next, dive into the rich history of computing at the Computer History Museum, located nearby in Mountain View. This museum offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of computing technology. Explore exhibits that range from ancient calculating devices to modern supercomputers. Highlights include the rare Apple I, the first Google server, and the revolutionary ENIAC. Engage with interactive displays that demonstrate the impact of computing on society and learn about the visionaries who paved the way for today’s digital age. This stop provides a deep appreciation of the technological advances that have shaped our modern world.
Afternoon – Lunch break, Palo Alto and Apple
12:00 - 1:00pm: Now it's time to grab some food and see what daily life in Palo Alto looks like. Depending on the recommendations from your guide, you'll have a wide-range of food options to choose from. One of the 5 most expensive cities in the U.S., Palo Alto houses some of the most educated people in the country. If time permits, we will swing by the humble HP Garage for more tech tales on how the city began its path to fame and fortune.
1:15 - 2:00pm: A quick stop at the prestigious Stanford University offers a perfect photo opportunity. This renowned institution, located in Palo Alto, has been a cornerstone of innovation and research. Capture the stunning architecture of the main quad, with its beautiful sandstone buildings and iconic Hoover Tower. Learn about Stanford's significant contributions to technology and business, including its role in the birth of Silicon Valley. Discover the university's entrepreneurial spirit and its influence on the global tech landscape.
2:30 - 3: 15pm: At our final stop you'll experience Apple's newly-opened Visitor's Center. Complete with interactive stations to explore their new technology, a world-class cafe, and a fully-stocked Apple store, this unique building takes you to the forefront Apple's new releases. No one is allowed to roam the corporate headquarters in person, but instead grab an IPad and explore the top-secret campus via virtual reality.
4:00pm: Once we've completed our full day retracing the steps of today's tech leaders, we'll head back to San Francisco. On the way, be prepared for a green and scenic ride. We'll pass the protected Crystal Springs Reservoir & San Andreas Lake before making it back in time for dinner in the city.
Pickup locations:
* RIU Plaza Fisherman's Wharf (2500 Mason St)
* Hilton San Francisco Union Square (333 O'Farrell St)
Silicon Valley
Meeting & Transfer Info
07:30 AM | San Francisco
Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf 2500 Mason St
NORTH POINT ST side (formerly Sheraton FW)
07:50 AM | San Francisco
Hilton San Francisco Union Square 251 Mason St
East Entrance
What’s Included
- Complimentary pickup/dropoff from two San Francisco locations
- Full-time professional, knowledgeable guide
- Transportation to/from Silicon Valley in biofueled mini-coach
- Computer History Museum entrance fee
- Narrated guided in-coach tour
- Free time to explore Googleplex cafe, store and art
- Visit downtown Palo Alto and experience startup culture
- Meals (stops will be made to purchase food)
- Guide gratuity (customary 15-20% of tour cost)
Special Notes
- Cancelled 3 days or less prior to departure date, no refund will be issued.
- Silicon Valley Tip: Google, Apple, Instagram, and other possible stops on this tour are places of business, and people are working in the buildings. The local operator is able to bring you to see many of the public areas, but you will not be allowed into the working buildings on the campuses.
The time we mentioned in the itinerary is for reference only. Please refer to your guide on tour for the actual arrangement. The visiting order and duration might be changed according to actual and practical situation for better service.
This tour/activity is overseen by a select local operator in the region. Upon booking your tour or activity and after receiving confirmation, you will be issued an e-ticket detailing the local operator's name and contact information. If you require assistance finding a specific tour, please contact us for more information.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirement: If you have traveled to or transited through yellow fever-endemic regions including East African countries (excluding Tanzania) or South American countries, either before or after your trip, you may be required to present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. This requirement can apply not only for joining tours but also for certain flights or entry into specific countries. For more details, please refer to the official site: : Yellow Fever Risk Areas - Fit for Travel
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